Answer :
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The most frequently used tool to alter the supply of money and credit in the economy is Open Market Operations (OMO). Here's why:
1. Open Market Operations involve the buying and selling of government securities by the central bank (like the Federal Reserve in the U.S.).
2. When the central bank wants to increase the money supply, it buys government securities from commercial banks and the public. This puts more money into circulation.
3. Conversely, when the central bank wants to decrease the money supply, it sells government securities, taking money out of circulation.
4. Through these actions, Open Market Operations directly impact the money supply and influence interest rates in the economy.
While changing the Discount Rate and the Required Reserve Ratio (RRR) are also tools used by central banks to influence the money supply, Open Market Operations are the most frequently used and effective tool due to their direct impact on the money supply and interest rates.
I hope this explanation helps you understand why Open Market Operations are the most frequently used tool to alter the supply of money and credit in the economy. Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions!